Proton Preve To Be Turbo-Only After 2016 Persona Launch

Proton will be discontinuing lower-powered variants of the Preve following the new Persona’s launch later this month, a company source revealed during a behind-closed-doors preview session of the upcoming model at the company’s Shah Alam plant today.

This rationalization stops a long-running Proton habit of having multiple models overlap one segment, a habit particularly prevalent at one time when the company had the previous-generation Persona, Preve, and Inspira – all similarly-sized family sedans – being sold side-by-side with each other.

The future Proton line-up will be far more clearly demarcated. As far as sedans are concerned, there will be the entry-level Saga offering only a 1.3-litre engine, the new Persona powered by a naturally-aspirated 1.6-litre engine, and the Preve further up with a turbocharged 1.6-litre powerplant.

Currently, the Preve is offered with a choice of two 1.6-litre engines. The naturally-aspirated Campro IAFM version puts out 107hp and 150Nm, whilst the more powerful turbocharged engine has access to 138hp and 205Nm.

The soon-to-be-discontinued IAFM model can be had with either a 5-speed manual or continuously variable transmission; the turbocharged CFE variant is CVT-only, although Proton has been long-rumoured to have a 6-speed manual package in the works for this engine.

Prefering his cars to come with four disc brakes, independent rear suspension, and manual transmission, Kon prioritizes mechanical sophistication over outward appeal. Admires cars built to exceed the sum of their parts and appreciates vehicles engineered with integrity.